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Life-saving duo rewarded for stopping to help 15-year-old cyclist after Kirkstone Pass accident

TWO men who saved a teenage cyclist after he came off his bike on Kirkstone Pass have been rewarded for their heroics.

James Taylor, from Harlow, Essex and Christopher Tomlinson from Long Marton, Penrith have been recognised by the Royal Humane Society for saving 15-year-old Jack Pollock, of Glenridding, last August.

The men were travelling separately over the A592 road when they realised the extent of Jack’s serious head injuries after stopping to help.

Realising they were in a remote area where it would take time for emergency services to arrive, they provided basic first aid, kept his airways open and stemmed his bleeding.

Jack was eventually airlifted to hospital in Preston before being taken to the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital where he underwent an operation and fought for his life for several days.

He returned home on September 19 after spending five weeks at the hospital and a further five days at the Cumberland Infirmary making a miraculous recovery.

Jack’s mother, Helen Beaty, said: “We continue to thank James and Chris for the first aid care and support provided at the scene.

“We also thank members of the public, Cumbria Police, the ambulance service, the Great North Air Ambulance Service and staff at all the hospitals where Jack has received treatment.”

Mr Tomlinson received his award in person from Lord Lieutenant Claire Hensman at a ceremony at the Roundthorn Hotel on Thursday.

Jack and his family were present but, unfortunately, Mr Taylor was unable to attend.

Mr Tomlinson said: “I am proud to receive the award, but there really is no better reward than to see Jack in such good health.”

Sergeant Ben Swinson, who investigated Jack’s accident, said: “The injuries which Jack sustained were very serious and the fact that he is now almost fully recovered is fantastic.

“The vital first aid provided by Mr Taylor and Mr Tomlinson at the scene undoubtedly contributed to Jack’s timely recovery. This has been recognised with the award.”

The awards ceremony also saw police officers and staff from across Cumbria commended for their service, professionalism and bravery with certificates from Chief Constable Bernard Lawson.

Mr Lawson said: “These awards are a showcase to highlight the hard work undertaken by the dedicated officers and staff of Cumbria Constabulary.

“They are a good opportunity to celebrate the exceptional work of many individuals.

“The dedication to service and the pure acts of bravery show the commitment of the officers who serve the people of Cumbria and the lengths they will go to in order to protect the local community.

“We were also able to recognise members of the public who had acted quickly to help a young boy who was involved in a potentially life threatening accident and their actions will have contributed to Jack making a miraculous recovery.”

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